06:00 (or 30 minutes before sunrise): Pickup from your hotel by air-conditioned private vehicle to position for sunrise
06:00: Sunrise balloon viewing at less-crowded or secluded location within the monument zone. Due to changing regulations and to avoid crowds, specific site will be chosen shortly before tour.
07:00-8:00: Photography of village people and farming activities during “blue hour” after sunrise.
08:00-09:00: Breakfast outdoors at semi-private pagoda or return to hotel for breakfast.
09:00-12:30: Tour of significant and lesser-known sites within the monument zone Old Bagan-New Bagan section. These can include the iconic temples such (Shwezigon, Khaymingha, North Guni, Shwegugyi, Ananda, Pyathada) as well as lesser-known sites. Visit to sand-painting artisan in Old Bagan for demonstration and opportunity for guests to create their own souvenirs together with the craftsman. Guests will enjoy a demonstration of the techniques and finished examples from the local painter. Guests will select from smaller canvases prepared with outlines of the designs to fill in similar to a coloring book to create their own souvenir.
12:30-13:30: Lunch break
13:30-16:00: Tour of monuments in located in the section of Old Bagan-Nyaung U. Sites may include Shwezigon stupa, Htilominlo Pahto Temple, Upali Thein, and other less-visited locations. Refreshment break with fruit and fresh coffee/tea at our “home” pagoda situated within harvest area of local community. Walking tour of agricultural village. Visit to family bamboo workshop to learn about the role of bamboo in Myanmar culture.
16:00-17:30: Journey by taxi to remote village location on the Irrawaddy, a cluster of pagodas situated on an isolated clifftop. Visit remote sites and areas on foot, including many not listed on any map or guidebook. Amazing murals and panoramic views, visit magical meditation caves and cliff monasteries. Fantastic late-period temples with murals and stone carvings, expansive views, and a small monastic community. Opportunity to experience a visit to the community, learn about the monastic life, and engage with monks.
17:30-19:00: Return to Old Bagan by private boat, including cold drinks and snacks. Views of most notable Bagan monuments along riverside.
19:00-19:30: Return to your hotel or drop-off at local restaurant by private taxi